How To Help Someone That’s Having An Anxiety Attack?

A Soothing Guide to Assisting Someone During an Anxiety Attack

When someone is swept up in the turbulent waves of an anxiety attack, it can feel like they’re drowning in their own breath. Witnessing it can be equally heart-wrenching, leaving you feeling helpless. But fret not! You’ve got more power to help than you might think. Let’s dive into some effective ways to be that lifebuoy for someone caught in the storm.

Understanding the Eye of the Storm

First things first, let’s get our bearings on what’s happening during an anxiety attack. It’s more than just a bad case of the jitters. We’re talking full-on, heart-pounding, breath-shortening, world-closing-in panic. The person experiencing it may believe they’re having a heart attack or losing control entirely. Knowing this, your role as a calm presence becomes crucial.

Steps to Take:

• Listen Up: Yeah, it sounds simple, but it’s mighty. Listening without judgment provides immediate emotional support. Lock into the convo with a kind of zen-like focus. It shows you’re there, truly there, for them.
• Keep it Cool: While you might be internally freaking out, external calm is your best outfit. Panic, much like yawns, can be contagious. So, avoid phrases that might accidentally fan the flames like, “Calm down,” or “Just breathe.”
• Breathing Buddies: Speaking of breathing, it’s a game-changer. Encourage them to take slow, deep breaths with you. Make it a duo thing, so they don’t feel spotlighted. And hey, it’s good for your nerves too.
• Grounding Techniques: Help them plant their feet firmly on the ground, quite literally. Engage their senses to anchor them back to reality. Ask them to name things they can see, hear, smell, or touch around them. It can create a comforting distraction.

“Dos” and “Don’ts”

Do:

• Offer a gentle presence. Sometimes, being there is enough.
• Empathize. A simple “This must be really hard for you” can go a long way.
• Suggest moving to a quieter spot if the environment is noisy.

Don’t:

• Assume you know exactly how they feel. Everyone’s experience with anxiety is unique.
• Belittle the experience. What might seem small to you is a mountain to them.
• Force them into things. If they don’t want to talk or move, respect that.

Remember, the goal isn’t to cure their anxiety on the spot. It’s about providing a safe harbor amidst their storm. As they ride it out, your steady support can make a world of difference.

Beyond the Attack: Long-Term Support

Anxiety attacks are but waves in the larger ocean of mental health. Offering support doesn’t end when the attack subsides. Check-in on them later, and if they’re open to it, gently suggest they seek professional help or explore therapeutic options. Remember, your role is supportive, not diagnostic.

Navigating through an anxiety attack as a helper can be challenging, yet it’s profoundly rewarding. By mastering the art of calm and collected support, you become a beacon of hope in someone’s storm. It’s about building trust and safety, one gentle wave at a time.